What is collagenase clostridium histolyticum (Xiaflex)?

Collagenase clostridium histolyticum is made from a mixture of proteins derived from a certain bacteria.

Collagenase clostridium histolyticum is used to treat Dupuytren's contracture in adults. This condition causes an abnormal thickening of the tissue in the palm of the hand. This condition may get worse over time and form a "cord" in your palm, causing a permanent bend in your finger.

Collagenase clostridium histolyticum may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of collagenase clostridium histolyticum (Xiaflex)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregiver at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

feeling like you might pass out (even while lying down);

bruising or bleeding in the treated hand;

severe pain, itching, redness, warmth, swelling, or other irritation in the treated hand;

numbness or tingling in the treated hand;

fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, swollen glands;

swollen glands in your elbow or underarm; or

sudden pain, snapping or popping sound, bruising, loss of movement, or swelling in the joints of your hand.

Less serious side effects may include:

mild pain or tenderness in the treated hand;

cracked skin; or

underarm pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about collagenase clostridium histolyticum (Xiaflex)?

Before you receive this medication, tell your doctor if you have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, such as hemophilia.

The day after your injection, your doctor will need to examine your hand to see if your condition has improved. Avoid any strenuous activity using the treated hand until your doctor tells you to resume normal activities.

Tell your caregiver at once if you have a serious side effect in the treated hand, such as bruising, bleeding, swelling, redness, warmth, numbness, tingling, or sudden pain or loss of movement.

Call your doctor if you have fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, or swollen glands in your elbow or underarm.